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Old 02-21-2015, 06:43 AM   #1
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How to create more than 16 partitions?


While installing Debian with the expert installer, I tried to divide a hard drive into 17 partitions, but the installer refused to create this. I selected the default partition type, "MSDOS". The installer only continued when I went back and adjusted it to 16 partitions. I could not find any literature stating that 16 is a maximum. Is it possible to create more than 16 partitions? How?
 
Old 02-21-2015, 07:52 AM   #2
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GPT allows up to 128 partitions, however your kernel probably only reserves 16 minor numbers for partitions so creating device nodes would still be a problem.

Anyway, what can you do with partitions where logical volumes aren't a better solution?
 
Old 02-21-2015, 07:54 AM   #3
gengisdave
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In MBR mode, an extended partition can't have more than 15 partitions. The maximum number in a disk is 18, then (3 primary + 15 logical).
 
Old 02-21-2015, 09:44 AM   #4
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The original SCSI subsystem only allowed for 16 partitions. PATA, SATA and USB after libata was implemented used the same subsystem which imposed the same limits. However with kernel 2.6.28+ allows for dynamic allocation so the 16 limit no longer exists.

I have not played with debian in a while but it might be the partitioning tool that still has that limitation. Might have to partition using another like sf disk using a live version.

Technically, there is no limit. Practical tests have been performed and 130 was created a few years ago. With the old IDE subsystem a single disk had 145 os installed.

Last edited by michaelk; 02-21-2015 at 10:17 AM.
 
Old 02-21-2015, 08:38 PM   #5
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Some web pages offer solutions. http://forums.justlinux.com/showthre...-PATA-USB-disk

There are boot managers that can do all this too. A few pretty advanced for free.

Last edited by jefro; 02-21-2015 at 08:44 PM.
 
Old 03-05-2015, 11:31 AM   #6
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I ran into this exact same problem. The 3 logical (ext3) and 16 or so (ext2) is what I had. I.decided to avoid unrecognized options in solving this for primary reasons. Simply went out and got another drive.

I dont think systems and architecture are yet ready to realize our problem. Just have to wait it out bud.
 
  


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